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Remembering on Veterans’ Day

So today is Veterans’ Day. Today is the 89th Anniversary of the day World War I ended, and today is the day we remember all our brave soldiers that fought in all past (and present) wars to serve our nation and defend what we value most about this nation. I’ve been thinking about the meaning of today all weekend, especially as I was remembering my grandfather.

My grandfather fought in the European Theater during World War II. He was shot while crossing the Maginot Line, and he watched his fellow troops die as he nearly died. He died just before I was born, and I never had a chance to meet him in person. But still, I’ve been told all the war stories that my grandfathet told my mother. And I wonder sometimes what he would think about where our nation is today.

What would he think about George W. Bush sending our troops to an endless occupation that’s doing nothing to keep our nation secure? He was a lifelong Republican, but spent the last few years of his life horrified by Ronald Reagan and his faux “bravado”. What would he think of Democrats like Hillary Clinton showing real support for the troops? Would he actually stand back and wonder just who really cares about the best interest of our nation?

I’m sorry if it seems like I’m trying to “politicize” Veterans’ Day. I really don’t. It’s just that I can’t stop thinking about my grandfather, someone who actually knew a thing or two about serving his nation bravely and honorably. I just wonder what he would think about where we are today if he were around to tell us what’s on his mind.